How could you forget rowing?

Atascadero

In her otherwise good article on physical fitness activities (“Step Your Game Up,” Jan. 20), intern Alycia Kiley omits the most beneficial aerobic/strength activity of all—one superior to any of those listed: recreational rowing. That’s sliding seat rowing, as in the Olympics, and it didn’t even make it as an “also consider!”

Rowing is one of the few recreation activities that uses all of the major muscle groups of the body: legs, back, shoulders, and arms. Unlike running or jogging, it’s easy on the knees and feet. Unlike cycling, you won’t be creamed by a car. Unlike surfing, you won’t lose a leg to a shark, and you can enjoy beautiful scenery at Lake Santa Margarita or Morro Bay. In bad weather, indoor rowing machines are used. Competitive rowing dates back to 1715, with continuous annual competition since that year.

The investment in equipment is minimal, with boats and equipment at Lake Santa Margarita provided with membership in the San Luis Obispo Rowing Club, all for a modest annual membership fee of $100—the best recreational physical fitness bargain in the county!

For information about the club, membership, and lessons, view our website (sanluisobisporowingclub.com) or call Ted English.